Spiritism

Spiritism is a spiritualistic philosophy and movement that started in the 19th century by the French educator Allan Kardec, proposed that humans, along with all other living beings, are essentially immortal spirits that temporarily inhabit physical bodies for several necessary incarnations to attain moral and intellectual improvement. It also asserts that spirits, through passive or active mediumship, may have beneficent or malevolent influence on the physical world.

History

Spiritism emerged in the mid-19th century through the findings and philosophy of Allan Kardec, following the phenomena of spirit manifestations (table turning) in the U.S. and Europe.

Beliefs

Spiritism's main beliefs postulate that humans are essentially immortal spirits that temporarily inhabit physical bodies for several necessary incarnations to attain moral and intellectual improvement. It also believes that spirits, through passive or active mediumship, may have beneficent or malevolent influence on the physical world.

Practices

Spiritism has been practiced in numerous countries around the world, with notable influence in Brazil, where it is linked with the Umbanda religion. Practices include mediumship, healing, and the study of Kardec's works.

Influence

Spiritism has influenced a range of physical, psychological, and moral areas, and has a significant following in various countries, including Brazil, the Philippines, and several countries in Europe, especially France and Spain.

Criticism

Spiritism has been criticized by various religious groups, including the Catholic Church, for its belief in reincarnation and spirit communication. It has also been criticized by skeptics and scientists for its lack of empirical evidence.

See also

• Allan Kardec
• Umbanda
• Spiritualism
• Mediumship

References

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